THE funeral of Welsh golfing hero Ian Woosnam's father will take place in Oswestry today.

Harold Woosnam, 74, died a week ago last Sunday after a long illness. Ian withdrew from a series of tournaments to be with him in the final days.

Mr Woosnam, a farmer, was a keen sportsman, and former captain of the Llanymynech Golf Club in Mid Wales. He started playing after giving up football.

Last night club professional Andy Griffiths, whose father Len played golf with him, paid tribute to Mr Woosnam.

He said: "Harold was captain in 1973. He used to play football for Llandrinio. He was a good footballer and used to give 100pc. He joined the club with my dad, Len, and played to a handicap of six. His wife Joan was also a past captain."

Mr Griffiths said Harold Woosnam gave Ian every chance to succeed with his golf.

He said: "He'll be missed. He was an enthusiast. He knew what was going on in football and golf . I played rounds with Harold and I liked the man very much."